Of the top contenders for the 2005 AMA 250cc Supercross title, only Ricky Carmichael will be racing in Canada (Vancouver and Toronto) over the next two weeks. These two races are the opening rounds of the World Supercross GP.
This will give Ricky Carmichael three races against quality competition on his new Suzuki RM250 before the opening round of the AMA Series in January (Carmichael also raced at the US Open in Las Vegas a month ago). Meanwhile, other top contenders for the AMA crown, including reigning champ Chad Reed (Yamaha) and James Stewart (Kawasaki), will skip the Canadian races.
Will this give Carmichael an edge in January? It certainly means that he should be comfortable, and dialed in, on his new bike before lining up for the first AMA round in Anaheim. Carmichael’s work ethic, and meticulous preparation, are legendary in the sport of motocross/supercross. Barring injury, Carmichael will be ready.